Discussion & Debate

Join us on the 22nd of December as we finish our reading of Cyril Lionel Robert James’ (CLR James) pioneering historical work of nonfiction, The Black Jacobins (**Chapter 13 and the Appendix: From Toussaint L'Ouverture to Fidel Castro**). 📍 Location: Shirker's Rest, 9 Lewisham Way, London SE14 6PP 🗓️ Date: 22nd of December ⏰ Time: 7:30 The book centres the narrative on the rise of Toussaint L’Ouverture, a former enslaved man who came to lead the rebellion, and tells the story of the uprising of enslaved people in Saint-Domingue that abolished both slavery and colonial rule, leading to the creation of the world’s first Black republic: Haiti. Alongside a detailed examination of the brutal conditions of plantation slavery, The Black Jacobins traces how the revolt became a full-scale revolution and defeated three empires. The Haitian Revolution remains a lasting beacon for Black liberation, anti-colonial, abolitionist and anti-authoritarian struggle around the world. We will be reading the book in five parts, each roughly consisting of around 50 pages. Our final reading will encompass Chapter 13 and the Appendix: From Toussaint L'Ouverture to Fidel Castro The text can be accessed for free here: https://politicaleducation.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CLR_James_The_Black_Jacobins.pdf Please note, we are committed to making every one of our events welcoming and safe for everybody. Our spaces are non-partisan, but not apolitical. Racism, fascism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, antisemitism, classism, and any other forms of discrimination based on preference or identity are not tolerated. If you are a victim of bigotry or harassment at any of our events, please raise this with an organizer, who will act appropriately. We broadly follow this code of conduct https://wiki.dbzer0.com/divisions-by-zero/the-anarchist-code-of-conduct/

Join us at **The Lion and Unicorn Wetherspoon**, as we enjoy a last pit-stop before Christmas. This social gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with friends - new and old. All ages welcome. Cheers! I will update the group discussion which table we're at. See you there 👍

**Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-property-networking-event-investors-real-estate-proptech-meetup-tickets-1975121403286?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/london-property-networking-event-investors-real-estate-proptech-meetup-tickets-1975121403286?aff=meetup)** Connect with property investors, real estate pros & PropTech innovators in London this November. Network & grow your business opportunities. #### **Connect with property investors, real estate pros & PropTech innovators in London this November. Network & grow your business opportunities.** The iconic and legendary Property Connector is now in its 15th year. It is always well attended with up to 60-70 attendees (the last one in November was nearly sold out with 70 guests). We invite you to join us at the prestigious Hay Hill Private Members Club in Mayfair for an exclusive evening of meaningful connections, valuable insights, and real opportunities. In line with the other events run by London Connector, you will find a welcoming and friendly environment, where deals are made, partnerships are formed, and innovation thrives in the property sector. In fairness, of all the events we run, this is probably the one where the highest number of deals and partnerships are created. ### **What You’ll Gain** **1\. Strategic Connections:** * Engage with leading investors, developers, architects, sustainability experts, and proptech innovators who are shaping the future of property. **2\. Pre\-Event Networking:** * Start building relationships before the event with access to an exclusive WhatsApp group where you can introduce yourself and set expectations. **3\. Opportunities to Thrive:** * Learn about cutting-edge trends, discover collaborative opportunities, and gain actionable strategies to grow your business. ### **Who Should Attend?** This event is tailored for a wide range of property professionals, including: * **Investors & Developers** eager to discover new projects and expand their portfolios. * **Real Estate Agents & Mortgage Brokers** aiming to network and find fresh leads. * **Landlords & Property Managers** seeking strategies to enhance their operations. * **Architects, Builders & Contractors** looking to connect with industry leaders. * **Proptech Founders & Tech Innovators** exploring collaborations and partnerships. * **Urban Planners & Sustainability Experts** driving innovation in property development. * **Interior Designers, Stagers & Consultants** building relationships to grow their reach. * **Legal Professionals & Property Lawyers** specializing in property and real estate law. * **Accountants & Financial Advisors** offering property-focused financial solutions. * **Property Marketing Experts & PR Specialists** sharing strategies to boost visibility. * **Surveyors & Valuation Experts** keen to connect with decision-makers in the industry. * **Sustainability Consultants & ESG Advocates** focusing on greener property solutions. * **Facility Managers & Operations Specialists** improving efficiency in property management. * **Insurance Brokers & Risk Advisors** serving the property sector. * **First-Time Buyers & Aspiring Professionals** looking to break into the property industry. * **Educational Institutions & Trainers** promoting property-related courses and certifications. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, this event is designed to help you connect, collaborate, and succeed. ### **Venue Spotlight** Set in the exclusive **Hay Hill Private Members Club**, known for its elegant ambiance and prime Mayfair location, this event offers the perfect blend of professionalism and sophistication. It’s the ideal setting to build lasting relationships while enjoying a relaxed and refined atmosphere. ### **Book Your Spot Today** **⏳ Limited Availability:** Only 70 spots are available for this exclusive event, ticket prices may go up the closer we get to the event date.Tickets are non-refundable but transferable to someone else if needed. **Event Disclaimer** Please note that photos and videos may be taken during this event. These may be used on our social media channels and promotional materials to showcase our events. If you prefer not to appear in any photos or videos, please inform the event host upon arrival, and we will ensure your preference is respected. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events/) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events/) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london/) * [London Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking/) * [London Business Networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking/) * [#investment](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23investment/) * [#investors](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23investors/) * [#property](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23property/) * [#london](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23london/) * [#proptech](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23proptech/) * [#propertyinvestment](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23propertyinvestment/) * [#londonevents](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23londonevents/) * [#businessnetworking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23businessnetworking/) * [#propertydevelopment](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23propertydevelopment/) * [#december](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/%23december/)

Our Meetup is open to everyone and anyone interested in self knowledge, self awareness, relationship and discovering a totally new way of living. Here, together over supper, we talk about everyday life topics, in an atmosphere of attentive listening, sensitivity, kindness, openness and friendship. **WHAT TO EXPECT** * This group meets up TWICE MONTHLY to talk over and explore life topics together; such as Fear, Conditioning, Belief, Desire, Attachment etc... * The approach for our investigation is inspired by 20th Century (non religious/ non political) revolutionary thinker, J Krishnamurti. * The atmosphere for our dialogue is relaxed, openminded, serious, compassionate, fun and friendly. * We learn through direct observation, self discovery and careful listening to each other, rather than through already acquired experience or knowledge. **WHO'S IT FOR** * Those wishing to explore deeper issues of everyday life and relationship, in a non therapeutic, non religious but friendly atmosphere. * Those interested in the thinking of J. Krishnamurti, but this is NOT a prerequisite. * Those interested in meeting new like-minded friends. * Those feeling stuck, at a crossroads, or wishing to delve deeper. * All nationalities, cultures and backgrounds welcome. * All ages & diversity welcome. **WHAT HAPPENS AT THE MEETUP** * Our sessions won’t have any fixed theme; we will spontaneously raise a topic at the restaurant. Sometimes we may wish to investigate further into a topic: we can suggest a short K video that we can all view prior to the following weekly session together. * The mood is challenging but non-confrontational, investigative but non-intellectual, contemplative but non-religious and especially serious but also good fun! **NO FEES OR DUES** * We pay for our own meal at the restaurant * There is no charge for the organisation * You can [donate to OPEN DOOR](https://open-door-worldwide.com/donate/) if you appreciate this initiative. **ABOUT OUR GROUP** * This event is organised by [OPEN DOOR](https://open-door-worldwide.com) * OPEN DOOR is a non profit making organisation * Run by [Jackie McInley](https://open-door-worldwide.com/about/) **OTHER SIMILAR EVENTS** * [PLEASE VISIT HERE FOR MORE DIALOGUE & SELF-INQUIRY EVENTS](https://open-door-worldwide.com/events/) **ABOUT J. KRISHNAMURTI** * [VISIT HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT KRISHNAMURTI](https://jkrishnamurti.org) * [KRISHNAMURTI THEMES EXPLORED](https://open-door-worldwide.com/themes/)

For the last meet before Christmas we'll be skipping the usual format and just having a drink and a social to celebrate another year of wonderful writing amongst friends. **The Talbot Room at the George Inn** The George provides the room free of charge (they are awesome), and we encourage you to purchase drinks (and food – the burgers are great!). As it’s a pub and not a picnic area, please don’t consume your own food and drink there. We usually meet in the Talbot room which is on the top floor on the left hand side of the pub as viewed from the courtyard. If lost please send a message here shortly before the meeting starts. **We are sorry to say that there is no step-free access to the Talbot room, and it is at the end of three flights of stairs.**

GGO admins are on holiday this week! We will be back!

Hi! If you would like to setup a Bible study but are timid to walk into a church building or be surrounded by a lot of people, we understand. To set up a one-on-one (or a small group if you and a friend or loved one want to talk together), please message us and we can setup a time. We are mainly available on Sunday nights, Monday nights, and Tuesday nights, but we will work around your schedule. Your questions and curiosities matter :) You can also dm me on Instagram (@lydiastodd) to setup a time and place. We live in Haringey area but are willing to travel to meetup with you at a coffee shop closer to you. Just let us know!

⚠️ **Please read the book** 🙏🏽, and avoid last minute AI summaries. 14 votes - The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz 9 votes - It Didn't Start with You by Mark Wolynn Join us for Deeper Discussions, where we dive into thought-provoking non-fiction books that challenge perspectives, inspire growth, and spark meaningful conversations. Whether you're an avid reader or just curious about exploring new ideas, this is a space to reflect, share, and gain new insights into the world around us. 🌍💡 **How does it work?** * 2 books have already been voted on selected last month for reading * We will split into two groups based on any of the two books you've been reading this month 💬 * Everyone shares summary / thoughts 🧠 * Focused Discussion on a specific chapter or topic / theme from the book for 30 minutes 📚 * Open Q&A regarding the book and any related topics ❓ **What to Expect?** 🔍 **Deep Discussions**: We’ll explore key themes, insights, and arguments from this month’s two books 💬📚 💡 **Critical Thinking & Reflection**: Engage in conversations that go beyond surface-level takeaways. Challenge perspectives, question assumptions, and discover new ways of thinking. 🤔✨ 🌿 **Personal & Collective Growth**: Non-fiction books have the power to transform our understanding of society, relationships, and ourselves 🧠🚀 **How to get the most out of this event?** 📝 **Read the Book (or key summaries!):** While reading the full book is ideal, even exploring key ideas through summaries or reviews can help you engage in the discussion. 📖✨ 🗣 **Respect & Openness:** Every perspective matters. This is a space for discussion, not debate. Stay curious, listen actively, and engage with an open mind. 🙏🌱 🤝 **Be Ready to Share & Learn:** What resonated with you? What challenged you? Personal reflections make the discussion richer and more meaningful. 💡🌍 📌 **Why a Non-Fiction Book Club?** 📖 **Expand Your Perspective:** Learn from diverse ideas, and real-world experiences. 🌏✨ 🧠 **Foster Intellectual Growth:** Engage in stimulating conversations that challenge and refine your thinking. 💭🔄 💬 **Deepen Connections:** Connect with like-minded individuals who value insightful discussions and continuous learning. 🤝📚 **Who is this event for?** * You love exploring ideas that shape the world. 🌎 * You enjoy thought-provoking discussions. 🗣 * You want to engage in meaningful conversations beyond small talk. 💡 * You’re open to challenging your assumptions and learning from others. 🔄 **What's in it for you?** * 💡 **A Space for Reflection:** Step back and think critically about important ideas. * 📚 **New Perspectives:** Gain insights from both the book and fellow participants. * 🤝 **Deep Connections:** Meet others who share a love for learning and growth. **Ready to dive into big ideas?** 🌊 Join us for an evening of engaging, insightful discussions on a book that **challenges**, **inspires**, and **expands** the way we think. 🌟 We really hope to see you there! 👋 **About Deeper Connections** We have a mission at Deeper Connections to improve the quality of people's lives through conversation. All our events are centred around the concept of connecting deeply, because we believe we all deserve to be seen, felt and understood for who we really are. To have the 'deeper conversation' approach when relating with others can change our lives and can change the world. **Our Values** * **Respect:** Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. ❤️ * **Open-mindedness:** Be open to different perspectives and ideas. 🧠💡 * **Active Participation:** Share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. 🗣️💬 **Staying in touch** Interested in finding out about all the events sooner than on Meetup or staying in touch beyond the events, you can join our WhatsApp channel and community using 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6CBAdIN9ijrEYdv33z) 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqGsmF3021RKTwBpGcuR80) **Keep This Event Free 💝** If this event brings you something meaningful, you can help others access the same transformational experience. Whether it's £5 or £15, every contribution keeps these events accessible to everyone in our community. You'll find a QR code on your conversation sheet during the event, or you can contribute here #SupportYourCommunity 👉🏽 [Ko-Fi](https://ko-fi.com/deeperconnections) 👉🏽 [Buy Me A Coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/deeperconnections)

**Debait - a modern public square that promotes respectful disagreement.** **We offer a much needed alternative to social media "debating". We are anti-clickbate and shouting. Just thoughtful discussions about issues shaping society.** We run two in-person sessions and one online session every week Please note that the sessions are held at different studios: * In-person **morning sessions** are held on **Tuesdays at 90 Hanbury Street, London, between 7am-8.30am** * In-person **evening sessions** are held on **Tuesdays at 259 Goswell Road, London, between 6pm-8pm** * Online sessions are held on **Wednesdays between 7pm-9pm** All our sessions are limited to a **maximum of 20 attendees** which guarantees that everyone will get ample opportunities to engage. **All our sessions are free for first timers. However, please note that you still need to book via the website (www.debait.co.uk) to secure your place on any given session. Use code FIRSTDEBAIT to claim your free spot.**

**Debait - a modern public square that promotes respectful disagreement.** **We offer a much needed alternative to social media "debating". We are anti-clickbate and shouting. Just thoughtful discussions about issues shaping society.** We run two in-person sessions and one online session every week Please note that the sessions are held at different studios: * In-person **morning sessions** are held on **Tuesdays at 90 Hanbury Street, London, between 7am-8.30am** * In-person **evening sessions** are held on **Tuesdays at 259 Goswell Road, London, between 6pm-8pm** * Online sessions are held on **Wednesdays between 7pm-9pm** All our sessions are limited to a **maximum of 20 attendees** which guarantees that everyone will get ample opportunities to engage. **All our sessions are free for first timers. However, please note that you still need to book via the website (www.debait.co.uk) to secure your place on any given session. Use code FIRSTDEBAIT to claim your free spot.**

Time is precious. Here we value non-boring chats and interactions that are fully engaging, soulfully enriching, inspiring, and leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. In that spirit (mind the pun!), today’s fully hosted laid back social coffee chat will offer a perfect haven for the inquisitive & curious - those drawn to the mysteries of the universe, life and everything in between. A tasty caffeine infused fun afternoon of thought-provoking causal chats exploring spirituality/consciousness and related interconnected topics spanning **philosophy,** **neuroscience**, **parapsychology,** **cosmology** and **noetic sciences** over a mug of sweet coffee. Hosted by me - a former Reuters journalist & published empirical researcher exploring spirituality topics in pursuant of the "truth" since a teenager, there'll be no strict structure - a relaxed friendly space to openly chat, exchange ideas & experiences without judgement, but I'll preside to promote inclusivity and zone in on specifics to avoid people digressing onto unrelated tangents to ensure like all of our events - particpants derive maximum utlity and insights from attending. We’ll touch on everything from the limits of scientific understanding to exploring the unexplained using practical fun exploratory divination practices drawing on elements of **psychology, metaphysics, epistemology** and **statistical** **probability** of rare events as we do so. Whether you're a practicing "spiritualist", a curious skeptic, or just someone who loves deep conversation on **life’s big questions**, you’ll hopefully walk away more enlightened with some practical tips you can start applying and inspired to explore more! **Sample of conversational threads** might include: Are we mere organisms pursuing biological survival or does consciousness exist beyond neurons firing in our brains? What explains peoples' paranormal experiences? What would reality look like If our brains were limitless? Declassified CIA files show that as as well as mind control experiments, the US govt employed mediums and remote viewers. If all mumbo jumbo then why? Is Nirvana just a fantasy of deluded people? Does everything happen for a reason? To clarify - we define spirituality here as an exploration of consciousness, Donald Rumsfeld's unknown unknowns and undiscovered aspects of reality, NOT religion. After all, as my philosophy professor once rightly postulated to me: "If God created Adam, who created God Lucas?" Yep - that inconvenient flaw **debunks every fairytale religion** out there including the oldest religion of them all - paganism - so why is witchcraft still practised outside of **Hogwarts** today? I may also share the latest peer reviewed empirical evidence surrounding **paranormal** and **consciousness** phenomena. As well as illuminating chats to guide self-reflection, there'll be FREE Tarot & I-Ching readings, demonstrations of meditation method to activate super powerful gamma brain waves, and pyschic tests for a bit of fun, laughter & intrigue! **=== POTENTIAL CONVERSATION STARTERS ===** 1. Does consciousness survive death or is Cambridge Astrophysics Professor Brian Cox right in asserting if **ghosts** existed then particle accelerators at CERN would have already detected ghost molecules making Ouija boards kids play? Are Poltergiests 100% hoax? Brain scans indicate thalamocortical circuits in our brain (pathways in the parietal cortex & central lateral thalamus) drive **consciousness -** so how can spirit/mind live on after **brain death**? 2. Is **synchronicity/coincidence** simply randomness disguised in the eye of the beholder or can what Einstein called “spooky action at a distance" (quantum entanglement) explain it? 3. Given **neuroscience**'s infancy with much yet undiscovered - could mediation help access functions outside of our BAU alpha & beta brain wave states? Can **Kundalini yoga** really boost natural **DMT** (dimethyltryptamine) levels and if so by what mechanism? Do the artifically created neural signatures using magnetic stimulation observed during mystical experiences debunk them? Is the Maharishi Effect real? 4. Are clairvoyants and mediums just good people readers or are they really able to access time and space in non-linear ways? Is Tyler Henry the real deal or just faking it? 5. The laws of statistical probability, Drake Equation & common sense tells us there should be other non-microbial life out there. If so, then what explains the Fermi Paradox? Was that 1976 WOW signal aliens? How about the recent strange bahaviour of Boyajian's star or Oumuamua/Atlas interstella object that has just entered our solar system? 6. Could metaverse explain deja vu & reincarnation vs theories from the **psychology** literature (Mandela Effect?) or do we just live in a **simulation** as **Elon Musk** proposes? 7. **Stephen Hawking** once said: "The past, like the future, is indefinite and exists only as a spectrum of possibilities" If matter only manifests when observed as the double slit experiments shows, does that mean everything is consciousness? Does the discovery of *quantum superposition /* disappearing neutrons imply **parallel universes**? 8. Do **NDEs** result from neurochemical changes in the brain close to death or something beyond physicality? 9. Can photons omitted by our bodies explain auras that people see? 10. Could limits in our understanding of quantum physics, space and time explain paranormal experiences? 11. What existed before the **big bang** \- how do you get something from "nothing"? I believe our reality is the product of a black hole\. What you reckon? ***So how do we get to the "truth"?*** Both in my journalism days and applying the most advanced empirical research techniques in my client consulting work - it becomes clear the truth is often elusive. No matter how much we triangulate evidence - we can only provide part answers. "All models are wrong, but some are useful" George Box What we think we know and reality diverge leading to that great **paradox of knowledge.** And as the boundary between knowns and unknown converge, we end up with cognitive dissonance and more questions. In that spirit - every credible philosopher & scientist acknowledges - we'll never get to the complete truth but could **experimental methods** get us closer to it? A balanced approach guided by Immanuel Kant's pragmatism and Aristotle's deductive reasoning seems the most rationale framework here but are there any other methodologies? How about the **"spirituality"** toolkit? **=== RENDEZVOUS POINT ===** We will meet in the Penderel's Oak. *283–288 High Holborn, Holborn WC1V 7HP* zone 1 central london so very easy to get to. I'll be wearing a **Starwars identifier** and will share mobile hotline just before event start and table number/location Lucas - The Unenlightened Desperately Seeking Answers

HEALING DEVELOPMENT GROUP This Healing Development group will also included the use the Drum and Journeying. If you have your own please bring it and/or rattle. I will have a few spare drums so please let me know that you are attending so I know if we have enough. Lorna facilitates a fun monthly open awareness and support group from beginners, to all levels of students and workers in the healing/therapy Energy fields. Please come to the support groups at venues and Zoom, below to keep up your practice, ask questions, support each other and discover how you use your healing skills and abilities as they develop. * Meditation/Journeying * Discussion * Awareness * Energy Sharing * Sound and Drumming at some venues I work mainly in the following areas but if you would like me to do a group in your area, contact me and we can discuss. If you cannot make a particular group please feel free to attend any of the others or on Zoom. LET ME KNOW IF YOU ARE ATTENDING. Cost £10.00 per session See my web site or contact me on my MOBILE: +44 (0) 7950 985 799 - for further details: www.blaze2wotherapieslorna.co.uk Please like my page: https://www.facebook.com/Blaze2woHolisticTherapies 2022 ADDISCOMBE Healing & Drum Development group Forth Tuesday of the month 19.30 pm - 21.30 pm *** REDHILL Healing Development Group - Currently full Third Monday of the month 19.00 pm - 21.00 pm \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* RICHMOND Drum Healing Group Bi-monthly Saturday 19.30 pm - 21.30 pm *** WALTON Drum Healing group Second Monday of the month 19.00 pm - 21.00 pm *** One Beat 2 Heal via zoom First Tuesday of the month 19.00 pm - 21.00 pm *** Learning Holistic Harmony of the Self via zoom Second and Fourth Thursday of the month 19.00 pm - 21.00 pm *** Email: blaze2wo@gmail.com

Meet up fee £7 to be paid at the beginning of the meet up. Card or cash payments. Meeting at Mikis Paradise Cafe. Please bring your favourite Tarot deck.

A hero of free speech returns! Featuring never-before-seen footage and unprecedented access, the film unfolds like a real-life spy thriller, reminding us what is truly at stake when journalism becomes a crime. As you may well be aware, Julian Assange has filed a criminal complaint against the Nobel Foundation for facilitating war crimes by awarding the prize to María Corina Machado. ‘The Nobel Foundation has turned an instrument of peace into an instrument of war,’ Assange stated last Wednesday when submitting the criminal complaint in Stockholm. According to the organisation founded by WikiLeaks’ creator, around 30 individuals linked to the Nobel Foundation may have committed alleged offences of misappropriation of funds, as well as facilitating war crimes and crimes against humanity. This documentary is too important to be missed! I have seat E4 for the screening at 12pm. I’ll arrive 5 minutes earlier and be at the bar. We’ll meet at the bar again after the documentary to share impressions. You can buy your ticket here: [https://www.thegardencinema.co.uk/film/six-billion-dollar-man/](https://www.thegardencinema.co.uk/film/six-billion-dollar-man/) Spanish reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) French reading club: [www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-livres)

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

[The Board Walks](www.theboardwalks.com) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** **and join us for a 5-mile walk** (10,000+ steps!). **What to expect:** We walk as a group and dive into topics that go beyond small talk. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **Come prepared:** We ask that you bring a thoughtful topic with you. At the start of the walk, everyone shares their topic with the group, and these become the launching points for conversations throughout our 5 miles together. Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. Be a good egg and bring a topic that'd make people go "Oooh, interesting." **Important notes:** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). We want everyone to have a great experience, and this format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. **FAQs:** * We have multiple first-timers on each walk! We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are very welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **Logistics:** * **Arrive on time.** If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we kindly suggest that you skip the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and one of our goals is to create a "phone-free" space — which means everyone (including the host!) will be fully present. We can't answer messages during the event. * **Read our [Ground Rules](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules)**. Our host gives an overview of what to expect at the beginning of the walk. * **Share the magic**. If you enjoy the event, send **[this](www.theboardwalks.com)** to a friend. We're currently in 7 cities with more on the way (Austin, SF, NYC, Denver, Columbus, Boone, London). 🤠👋 **If you want to go deeper...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. * We're currently building our waitlist. Apply [here.](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board)

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

$5 MOVIE NIGHT! With avatar fire and Ash, James Cameron takes audiences back to Pandora in an immersive new adventure with marine turned Navi leader Jake Sully. Navi Warrior, Naytiri and the Solly family. The film has a screenplay by James Cameron and Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver. We will see the 6 PM showing and I will post my seat so that we can sit together. We can grab something to eat after if people want and chat to round out the experience. This is a MUST SEE MOVIE for me. I hope you feel the same. I will CANCEL if there are less than 5 RSVPs on the movie date.